Manual Lymphatic Drainage
What is it?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, specialized massage technique designed to support the natural movement of lymph fluid throughout the body. Using slow, light, rhythmic movements, MLD encourages lymphatic flow and may help reduce swelling, ease feelings of heaviness or congestion, and support the body’s natural fluid balance. Unlike traditional massage, MLD uses very light pressure and follows specific pathways to encourage lymphatic drainage.
Is This For You?
People experiencing mild swelling or a feeling of fluid retention
People who feel puffy, heavy, or congested
People looking for a very gentle, relaxing form of bodywork
People who want to support healthy lymphatic circulation
People looking for supportive care before or after certain medical procedures, with appropriate provider clearance
People who spend long periods sitting, standing, or traveling
People looking to incorporate lymphatic-focused bodywork into their wellness routine
People who prefer light pressure rather than traditional deep or therapeutic massage
People interested in supporting their body’s natural fluid movement and overall wellness
Benefits
It May....
~Help reduce mild or chronic swelling and fluid retention
~Help relieve feelings of puffiness, heaviness, or pressure associated with fluid buildup
~Support healthy lymphatic circulation and overall fluid balance
~Help promote comfortable movement when swelling or fluid retention is contributing to stiffness or discomfort
~Support the body’s natural processes for maintaining fluid balance
~Promote relaxation through slow, gentle, rhythmic touch
~Be a comfortable option for people who find traditional massage pressure too intense
~Provide supportive care following medical procedures when recommended and cleared by a healthcare provider
~Complement other wellness practices as part of a consistent self-care routine
~Be especially appealing during times when the body feels swollen, sluggish, or in need of gentle support
~Provide a calming, low-pressure bodywork experience focused on encouraging rather than deeply manipulating the tissues
~ Increase overall wellness
~ Calm Lymphedema and Lipedema
~ Decrease Post-surgical swelling
~ Calm autoimmune conditions
~ Release migraines
~ Reduce sinus congestion
~ Ease chronic fatigue or insomnia
~ Improve memory function
MLD should be postponed if you have:
Active infection or cellulitis
Fever or contagious illness
Known or suspected blood clot, DVT, pulmonary embolism, or thrombophlebitis
Significant acute swelling with an unknown cause
Medical clearance may be required if you have:
Congestive or uncontrolled heart failure
Significant cardiovascular or circulatory disease
Severe arterial insufficiency
Kidney or liver failure
Cancer or are currently undergoing cancer treatment
Recent surgery or another medical procedure
If you are experiencing any of the following, MLD is unsafe:
Congestive heart failure, Kidney Disease, and Acute infection (fever and chills)
Contraindications
Please tell your therapist before your session if you have:
Any current medical condition that may affect your treatment
Recent procedures or surgeries
Open wounds or healing incisions
Skin conditions or areas of irritated/infected skin
Unexplained swelling
Medications that may affect circulation, fluid balance, or healing
Your therapist may modify, postpone, or decline treatment when appropriate for your safety. If you are experiencing sudden or unexplained swelling, redness, warmth, significant pain, chest pain, or shortness of breath, seek medical evaluation rather than scheduling an MLD session.
What to Expect
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is very different from a traditional massage. Your therapist will use slow, gentle, rhythmic movements with very light pressure, following specific pathways designed to encourage the natural movement of lymph fluid. You may be surprised by how light the pressure feels—MLD works at the level of the skin rather than through deep muscle tissue.
Your therapist will begin with a brief check-in about how you’re feeling and what you’d like to focus on. Depending on your goals, your session may include work on the neck, shoulders, abdomen, arms, armpits, legs, or other areas. You’ll remain comfortably draped throughout the session, with only the area being worked on exposed. Your chest will be covered while your abdomen is exposed.
After your session, you may notice a feeling of lightness, relaxation, or reduced puffiness. Everyone responds differently, so your therapist will help you understand what to expect and may offer simple suggestions for hydration, movement, or self-care afterward.
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